This is an exceptional macro lenses. It is well known and well respected. The 100mm focal length makes it excellent for portrait photography or macro shots where a 50mm would put you too close to the subject (e.g. insects). All high magnification macro lenses have fairly slow auto focus compared to non-macro versions. The 100mm f2.8 macro can be used for non-macro photography as long as fast focusing is not required.
There are 3 versions of this lens. The original, the RS (re-styled) and the "D" version. All are optically excellent but the newer RS and D version command slightly higher prices. The "D" version provides distance information to the camera body that can improve flash performance.
Ebay prices are typically $350-550+ depending on condition and version (Oct 2007).
Links for reviews and current Ebay auctions for this lens below. (Links open in a new window)
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Sony 100mm f 28 Macro AF Lens for Sony Minolta DSLRs |  |
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US $609.00 | 18m |
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Minolta Maxxum AF 100mm 28 Macro Lens 100 NR 49738 | |
13 Bids | US $123.50 | 2d 12h 23m |
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MINOLTA AF MAXXUM 100mm f28 MACRO 9 7D ALPHA USED | |
1 Bid | US $369.99 | 4d 17h 45m |
